Psychodynamic Psychotherapy

Psychodynamic Psychotherapy offers a confidential space where
individuals can think about and discuss their thoughts, emotions, relationships
and events in their lives, whether past or present. It presupposes that
whatever happens to us as we go through life, will have impacted on us,
sometimes in ways that we are unaware.

It is impossible for any individual to escape challenging times
and sometimes thoughts and feelings can be overwhelming. When this happens individuals
can become depressed or anxious or feel generally very unhappy with their lives
and in their relationships. Children and young people can respond differently
from adults. They may become sad or anxious but they may show it in many
different ways, for example they may find it hard to learn, have tantrums,
exhibit challenging behaviour or struggle with friendships.

Psychodynamic Psychotherapy with adults is usually a talking therapy
(unless the therapist specifically offers music, drama or art as a medium of
expression). Adolescents too may like to talk but children will often
communicate with the therapist through their play.

It is crucial that the individual in therapy, whether child or adult,
knows that the thoughts and feelings they share with their therapist are not
passed on without their express permission. However if a child, young person or
adult is not safe for any reason, then this may need to be shared with other
professionals or carers. This is always explained at the beginning of the work
and generally does not happen without the individual knowing and hopefully
giving his or her permission.

Sessions are usually once a week for 50 minutes in the same place, on
the same day and at the same time. A set number of sessions may be offered or
the work can be open ended so that the individual and the therapist together
decide when it should come to an end.